Discussion with Director and Human Rights Panelists to Follow Screening

SANTA CRUZ, CA - The Resource Center for Nonviolence, la Liga de la Comunidad, the ACLU of Santa Cruz, and other local organizations will host a special screening of the new documentary film, “The 800 Mile Wall,” on Friday, February 26, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. at the First Congregational Church, 900 High Street in Santa Cruz; at 7:00 p.m. on Saturday February 27th at the Lutheran Community Church, 95 Alta Vista in Watsonville; and, at 2:00 p.m. on Sunday February 28th at the Peace Resource Center, 1364 Fremont Blvd. in Seaside. The screenings will be followed by a panel discussion including the film’s director John Carlos Frey and the film’s producer Jack Lorenz,

John Carlos Frey’s latest film, “The 800 Mile Wall,” highlights the construction of the new border walls along the U.S.-Mexico border…and the lethal effects on migrants trying to cross into the United States. Migrant deaths have soared since enforcement and security measures were implemented by the United States beginning with Operation Gatekeeper in 1994.

“The 800 Mile Wall” takes an unflinching look at that failed U.S. border enforcement strategy that many believe has caused the death of thousands of migrants and violates fundamental human rights. Migrants perishing in the deserts of the U.S. southwest and drowning in the All American Canal, as well as seemingly unaffected members of the San Diego County Water Authority, are featured in this eye-opening film. The documentary’s released coincided with the distribution of the San Diego ACLU’s recent border death report, Humanitarian Crisis: Migrant Deaths at the U.S.-Mexico Border.

A $5.00-$10.00 suggested donation is asked at the door and no one will be turned away for lack of funds. Proceeds will support the film screenings and the work of “la Liga de la Comunidad.”